ranch style beans recipe
The Best ranch style beans recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main dish with rice or tortillas, or keep it simple as a side with grilled chicken or burgers. It’s also packed with protein and fiber from the beans, which keeps everyone full and satisfied. And let’s be real—anything that gets my kids to eat more veggies (even if they’re hidden in the sauce) is a win in my book. The best part? Leftovers taste even better the next day, so I always make extra.
Classic Ranch Style Beans
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender pinto beans simmered in a rich, smoky tomato-based sauce with a hint of ranch seasoning. Perfect as a side or a main dish with cornbread.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil or bacon grease
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked dried beans)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1/2 lb cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (for heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Heat olive oil or bacon grease in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. -
2
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. -
3
Stir in the pinto beans, tomato sauce, water or broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and ranch seasoning mix. Mix well to combine. -
4
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. -
5
If using, stir in the crumbled bacon, diced bell peppers, or jalapeño during the last 5 minutes of cooking. -
6
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or ranch seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. -
7
Serve hot as a side dish or over rice or cornbread for a hearty meal.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and cutting board
- Can opener
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Ranch Style Beans Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ranch Style Beans
1. What are ranch style beans?
Ranch style beans are a popular Tex-Mex dish made with pinto beans slow-cooked with a flavorful blend of spices, tomatoes, onions, and sometimes ground meat like beef or bacon. They have a slightly sweet, smoky, and savory taste, often served as a side dish or used in burritos, tacos, or nachos.
2. Can I make ranch style beans in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make ranch style beans in a slow cooker, combine all ingredients (beans, tomatoes, onions, spices, and meat if using) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method enhances the flavors and makes the beans tender without constant stirring.
3. Are ranch style beans gluten-free?
Most traditional ranch style bean recipes are naturally gluten-free, as they rely on beans, spices, and vegetables. However, always check labels on canned beans, broth, or pre-made seasoning mixes to ensure no gluten-containing additives are included.
4. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Absolutely! Using canned beans saves time. Drain and rinse 2-3 cans of pinto beans, then simmer them with the other ingredients for about 20-30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Adjust the liquid (broth or water) as needed since canned beans retain more moisture.
5. How can I make ranch style beans spicier?
To add heat, include diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also stir in chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your preferred level of spiciness.
